Diode-included connector, photovoltaic laminate and photovoltaic assembly using same

ABSTRACT

One embodiment relates to a connector that includes a diode. The diode has an anode and a cathode. The connector further includes a first electrical connection which connects to the anode, a second electrical connection which also connects to the anode, and a third electrical connection which connects to the cathode. Another embodiment relates to a photovoltaic laminate which includes a string of photovoltaic cells and three electrical conductors extending out of two discrete penetrations of the laminate. A first electrical conductor is connected to a first end of the string, a second electrical conductor is connected to a second end of the string, and a third electrical conductor is also connected to the second end of the string. The first and third electrical conductors extend out of the first discrete penetration, while the second electrical conductor extends out of the second discrete penetration. Other features and embodiments are also disclosed.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.12/972,153, filed on Dec. 17, 2010, which is incorporated herein byreference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates generally to circuit devices andphotovoltaic module assemblies.

2. Description of the Background Art

Photovoltaic (PV) cells, also referred to as “solar cells,” are wellknown devices for converting solar radiation to electrical energy.Photovoltaic cells may be packaged together in a photovoltaic module.

A conventional photovoltaic module may include a series ofinterconnected solar cells in a laminate. Typically, metal tabs areelectrically connected to ends of the series and exit from the backsideat the top center of the laminate. The metal tabs enter an externaljunction box which is attached to the backside at the top center of thelaminate. In the junction box, input and output cables are attached tothe tabs to get power from the module, and a diode may be configured tobypass cells in the module, if necessary. These elements relating to thejunction box are expensive, and there are substantial installation coststo routing and managing the junction box cables.

It is highly desirable to improve photovoltaic modules such that theymay be produced cost-effectively and installed more efficiently.

SUMMARY

One embodiment relates to a connector that includes a diode. The diodehas an anode and a cathode. The connector further includes a firstelectrical connection which connects to the anode, a second electricalconnection which also connects to the anode, and a third electricalconnection which connects to the cathode.

Another embodiment relates to a photovoltaic laminate which includes astring of photovoltaic cells and three electrical conductors extendingout of two discrete penetrations of the laminate. A first electricalconductor is connected to a first end of the string, a second electricalconductor is connected to a second end of the string, and a thirdelectrical conductor is also connected to the second end of the string.The first and third electrical conductors extend out of the firstdiscrete penetration, while the second electrical conductor extends outof the second discrete penetration.

Another embodiment relates to a photovoltaic assembly that includes twoof the aforementioned photovoltaic laminates, each including threeelectrical conductors extending out of two discrete weatherizedpenetrations. The two photovoltaic laminates are interconnected usingthe aforementioned diode-included connector with three electricalconnections.

Another embodiment relates to a connector that includes a diode. Thediode has an anode and a cathode. The connector further includes a firstelectrical connection which connects to the anode, a second electricalconnection which also connects to the anode, a third electricalconnection which connects to the cathode, and a fourth electricalconnection which connects to the anode.

Another embodiment relates to a photovoltaic laminate which includes astring of photovoltaic cells and two electrical conductors extending outof two discrete penetrations of the laminate. A first electricalconductor is connected to a first end of the string, and a secondelectrical conductor is connected to a second end of the string. Thefirst electrical conductor extends out of the first discretepenetration, while the second electrical conductor extends out of thesecond discrete penetration.

Another embodiment relates to a photovoltaic assembly that includes twoof the aforementioned photovoltaic laminates, each including twoelectrical conductors extending out of two discrete weatherizedpenetrations. The two photovoltaic laminates are interconnected usingthe aforementioned diode-included connector with four electricalconnections and also using an external cable.

Another embodiment relates to a connector that includes two diodes. Theconnector includes a first electrical connection which connects to theanode of the first diode and the cathode of the second diode and asecond electrical connection which connects to the cathode of the firstdiode. In addition, the connector includes a third electrical connectionwhich connects to the anode of the second diode and a fourth electricalconnection which connects to the cathode of the second diode and theanode of the first diode.

Another embodiment relates to a photovoltaic laminate which includes astring of photovoltaic cells and four electrical conductors extendingout of at least two discrete penetrations of the laminate. A firstelectrical conductor is connected to a first end of the string, and asecond electrical conductor is connected to an interior point of thestring. In addition, a third electrical conductor is also connected tothe interior point of the string, and a fourth electrical conductor isconnected to a second end of the string.

Another embodiment relates to a photovoltaic assembly that includes twoof the aforementioned photovoltaic laminates, each including fourelectrical conductors extending out of discrete weatherizedpenetrations. The two photovoltaic laminates are interconnected using aconnector that includes two diodes.

These and other embodiments and features of the present invention willbe readily apparent to persons of ordinary skill in the art upon readingthe entirety of this disclosure, which includes the accompanyingdrawings and claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a diode-included connector inaccordance with a first embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 2 is schematic diagram of a photovoltaic laminate in accordancewith the first embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 3 is schematic diagram of a photovoltaic assembly in accordancewith the first embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 4A is a schematic diagram showing the photovoltaic laminate of FIG.2 in a normal operation mode.

FIG. 4B is a schematic diagram showing the photovoltaic laminate of FIG.2 in a bypass operation mode.

FIG. 5A is a schematic diagram showing the diode-included connector ofFIG. 1 in a normal operation mode.

FIG. 5B is a schematic diagram showing the diode-included connector ofFIG. 1 in a bypass operation mode.

FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of a diode-included connector inaccordance with a second embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 7 is schematic diagram of a photovoltaic laminate in accordancewith the second embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 8 is schematic diagram of a photovoltaic assembly in accordancewith the second embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 9A is a schematic diagram showing the photovoltaic laminate of FIG.7 in a first partial bypass mode.

FIG. 9B is a schematic diagram showing the photovoltaic laminate of FIG.7 in a second partial bypass mode.

FIG. 10A is a schematic diagram showing the diode-included connector ofFIG. 6 in a first partial bypass mode.

FIG. 10B is a schematic diagram showing the diode-included connector ofFIG. 6 in a second partial bypass mode.

FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram of a diode-included connector inaccordance with a third embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 12 is schematic diagram of a photovoltaic laminate in accordancewith the third embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 13 is schematic diagram of a photovoltaic assembly in accordancewith the third embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram of a diode-included connector inaccordance with a fourth embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 15 is schematic diagram of a photovoltaic laminate in accordancewith the fourth embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 16 is schematic diagram of a photovoltaic assembly in accordancewith the fourth embodiment of the invention.

The use of the same reference label in different drawings indicates thesame or like components.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present patent application discloses innovations relating todiode-included connectors, photovoltaic laminates, and photovoltaicassemblies utilizing the connectors and laminates. The innovationsdisclosed herein may be used advantageously to reduce the installationcosts otherwise necessitated by the routing and managing a large numberof junction box cables. In addition, in comparison to embedding bypassdiodes in the laminate, the approach disclosed in the presentapplication enables a defective diode to be readily switched out, thusavoiding the need to replace an entire module if its diode fails.Furthermore, a diode operating in a connector as disclosed herein candissipate heat more readily without disadvantageously heating themodule.

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a diode-included connector 100 inaccordance with a first embodiment of the invention. As shown, thediode-included connector 100 may include a diode device 102 in anenvironmentally-protected housing 104. For example, an O-ring 105 may beused to prevent external moisture from entering the interior of thehousing 104. Alternatively, an encapsulant (such as a potting material)may be inserted into the housing 104 to weatherize the connector 100.The connector 100 may also be configured such that it can bedisassembled with or without tools to replace or otherwise service thediode. For example, one or more screws (or other re-openable fasteningmechanism) may be used to close the housing. These screws may beunscrewed (or other mechanism opened) so as to gain access to theinterior of the diode-included connector 100 for replacing or otherwiseservicing the diode device 102. A strain relief mechanism may also beincorporated into the connector such that forces applied to the externalconductors are not transferred to the internal connection points.

The diode device 102 includes an anode and a cathode. When forwardbiased, the diode device 102 typically allows electrical current to flowthrough it from the anode to the cathode. When reverse biased, the diodedevice 102 typically prevents electrical current from flowing throughit. A heat sink 103 may be thermally coupled to the diode device 102 soas to provide passive cooling of the diode device 102.

The diode-included connector 100 further includes a first electricalconnection 108-1 which connects to the anode, a second electricalconnection 108-2 which also connects to the anode, and a thirdelectrical connection 108-3 which connects to the cathode. A first port114-1 may be configured to electrically connect to the first and thirdelectrical connections (108-1 and 108-3). In one implementation, thefirst port may be configured as a coaxial connector so as to connect toa coaxial cable (the cable and connectors being configured withsufficient amperage carrying capacity for the electrical current flowingthrough them during peak operation). A second port 114-2 may beconfigured to electrically connect to the second electrical connection108-2.

FIG. 2 is schematic diagram of a photovoltaic laminate 200 in accordancewith the first embodiment of the invention. The photovoltaic laminate200 includes a string of photovoltaic (solar) cells 202 connected inseries. Each photovoltaic cell 202 in the string may be configured as alarge-area PN-junction, and electrically-conductive interconnections 204may be configured to connect a negative contact of one cell in thestring to a positive contact of the next cell in the string. A first endof the string may be at its negative polarity end (−) of the string, anda second end of the string may be at its positive polarity end (+).

In accordance with an embodiment of the invention, the photovoltaiclaminate 200 may include a first discrete penetration 212− in a cornerof the laminate near the first end (the negative polarity end) of thestring and a second discrete penetration 212+ in a corner of thelaminate near the second end (the positive polarity end) of the string.A sealant may be inserted into the first and second discretepenetrations (212− and 212+) so as to seal them from external moisture.A strain relief may also be incorporated into the discrete penetrationsuch that forces applied to the external conductors are not transferredto the discrete connection point.

A first electrical conductor 208-1 may be electrically connected to thefirst end of the string and may be configured to extend out of the firstdiscrete penetration. A second electrical conductor 208-2 may beelectrically connected to the second end of the string and may beconfigured to extend out of the second discrete penetration. A thirdelectrical conductor 208-3 may be electrically connected to the secondend of the string and may be configured to extend out of the firstdiscrete penetration. In one implementation, a metal bus bar 220 may beembedded in the photovoltaic laminate and configured to connect thesecond end of the string to the second electrical conductor 208-2. Analternate embodiment which utilizes an external cable, instead of aninternal bus bar, is described below in relation to FIGS. 11-13.

In one implementation, a first connector 214-1 may be configured at anend of the first and third electrical conductors (208-1 and 208-3). Thefirst connector 214-1 may be of a type so as to connect with the firstport 114-1 of the diode-included connector 100 of FIG. 1. For example,if the first port 114-1 is a female coaxial-type connector, then thefirst connector 214-1 may be matching male coaxial-type connector. Whenthe first connector 214-1 and first port 114-1 are connected, the firstelectrical conductor 208-1 is connected to the first electricalconnection 108-1, and the third electrical conductor 208-3 is connectedto the third electrical connection 108-3.

In addition, a second connector 214-2 may be configured at an end of thesecond electrical conductor (208-2). The second connector 214-2 may beof a type so as to connect with the second port 114-2 of thediode-included connector 100 of FIG. 1. When the second connector 214-2and second port 114-2 are connected, the second electrical conductor208-2 is connected to the second electrical connection 108-2.

FIG. 3 is schematic diagram of a photovoltaic assembly 300 in accordancewith the first embodiment of the invention. As shown, a plurality ofphotovoltaic laminates 200, each generally configured within a solarmodule, are connected in series using the diode-included connectors 100.As indicated, each diode-included connector 100 has a first port 114-1which is connected to the first connector 214-1 of a photovoltaiclaminate 200 (to the right of the connector in the figure) and a secondport 114-2 which is connected to the second connector 214-2 of anotherphotovoltaic laminate 200 (to the left of the connector in the figure).

FIG. 4A is a schematic diagram showing the photovoltaic laminate 200 ofFIG. 2 in a normal operation mode. In this normal (non-bypass) operationmode, electrical current I_(normal) flows in from the first electricalconductor 208-1 at a negative polarity end, through the series of solarcells in the string, and out of the second electrical conductor 208-2 ata positive polarity end.

FIG. 4B is a schematic diagram showing the photovoltaic laminate 200 ofFIG. 2 in a bypass operation mode. In this bypass operation mode,electrical current does not flow through the string of solar cells.Rather, the electrical current I_(bypass) flows in from the thirdelectrical conductor 208-3 at a negative polarity end, bypasses thestring of solar cells, and flows out of the second electrical conductor208-2 at a positive polarity end.

FIG. 5A is a schematic diagram showing the diode-included connector 100of FIG. 1 in a normal (non-bypass) operation mode. In particular, thediode-included connector 100 is in this normal operation mode when thephotovoltaic laminate 200 connected to the first connector 114-1 is in anormal operation mode. Because the photovoltaic laminate 200 connectedto the first connector 114-1 is in a normal operation mode, the diodedevice 102 is reverse biased. As such, electrical current I_(normal)flows in from the second electrical connection 108-2 and out of thefirst electrical connection 108-1. In other words, the diode-includedconnector 100 is in the normal operation mode when the voltage at 108-2is higher than the voltage at 108-1.

FIG. 5B is a schematic diagram showing the diode-included connector ofFIG. 1 in a bypass operation mode. The diode-included connector 100 maybe in a bypass operation mode because the photovoltaic laminate 200connected to the first connector 114-1 is operating at low voltage dueto shading reducing the light shining on the solar cells, for example.Because the photovoltaic laminate 200 connected to the first connector114-1 is operating at a low voltage, the diode device 102 may becomeforward biased. When the diode device 102 becomes forward biased, theelectrical current I_(bypass) flows in from the second electricalconnection 108-2, through the diode device 102, and out of the thirdelectrical connection 108-3. In other words, the diode-includedconnector 100 is in the bypass operation mode when the voltage at 108-2is not higher than the voltage at 108-1.

FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of a diode-included connector 600 inaccordance with a second embodiment of the invention. As shown, thediode-included connector 600 may include two diode devices (602-1 and602-2) in an environmentally-protected housing 604. For example, anO-ring 605 (or, alternatively, a potting material) may be used toprevent external moisture from entering the interior of the housing 104.Alternatively, an encapsulant (such as a potting material) may beinserted into the housing 604 to weatherize the connector 600. A strainrelief mechanism may also be incorporated into the connector such thatforces applied to the external conductors are not transferred to theinternal connection points.

Each diode device (602-1 and 602-2) includes an anode and a cathode. Aheat sink 603 may be thermally coupled to the diode devices (602-1 and602-2) so as to provide passive cooling of the devices.

The diode-included connector 600 further includes a first electricalconnection 608-1 which connects to the anode of a first diode 602-1 andthe cathode of the second diode 602-2, a second electrical connection608-2 which connects to the cathode of the first diode 602-1, a thirdelectrical connection 608-3 which connects to the anode of the seconddiode 602-2, and a fourth electrical connection 608-4 which connects tothe cathode of the second diode 602-2 and the anode of the first diode602-1.

A first port 614-1 may be configured to electrically connect to thefirst and second electrical connections (608-1 and 608-2). A second port614-2 may be configured to electrically connect to the third and fourthelectrical connections (608-3 and 608-3). In one implementation, thefirst and second ports (614-1 and 614-2) may be configured as coaxialconnectors so as to connect to coaxial cables (the cables and connectorsbeing configured with sufficient amperage carrying capacity for theelectrical current flowing through them during peak operation).

FIG. 7 is schematic diagram of a photovoltaic laminate 700 in accordancewith the second embodiment of the invention. The photovoltaic laminate700 includes a string of photovoltaic (solar) cells 202 connected inseries. Each photovoltaic cell 202 in the string may be configured as alarge-area PN-junction, and electrically-conductive interconnections 204may be configured to connect to a negative connection point of one cellin the string to a positive connection point of the next cell in thestring. A first end of the string may be at the negative polarity end(−) of the string, and a second end of the string may be at its positivepolarity end (+).

In accordance with an embodiment of the invention, the photovoltaiclaminate 700 may include a first discrete penetration 712− in a cornerof the laminate near the first end (the negative polarity end) of thestring and a second discrete penetration 712+ in a corner of thelaminate near the second end (the positive polarity end) of the string.A sealant may be inserted into the first and second discretepenetrations (712− and 712+) so as to seal them from external moisture.A strain relief may also be incorporated into the discrete penetrationsuch that forces applied to the external conductors are not transferredto the discrete connection point.

A first electrical conductor 708-1 may be electrically connected to thefirst end (−) of the string and may be configured to extend out of thefirst discrete penetration 712−. A second electrical conductor 708-2 maybe electrically connected to an interior point 720 of the string and maybe configured to also extend out of the first discrete penetration 712−.A third electrical conductor 708-3 may be electrically connected to theinterior point 720 of the string and may be configured to extend out ofthe second discrete penetration 712+. Finally, a fourth electricalconductor 708-4 may be electrically connected to the second end (+) ofthe string and may be configured to also extend out of the seconddiscrete penetration 712+. The electrical conductors 708-3 and 708-4 maycomprise, at least in part, a metal bus bar embedded in the laminate. Analternate embodiment which utilizes an external cable, instead of aninternal bus bar, is described below in relation to FIGS. 14-16.

While a particular interior point 720 in the string of solar cells 202is shown in FIG. 7 for purposes of illustration, the interior point 720may be located between any two solar cells 202 in the string. Moreover,while connections to one interior point 720 are depicted in FIG. 7 anddescribed in detail herein, other alternate embodiments may utilizeconnections to multiple interior points 720. Each additional interiorpoint 720 that is utilized would require an additional bypass diode 602so as to be capable of independently bypassing an additional section ofthe string.

In one implementation, a first connector 714-1 may be configured at anend of the first and second electrical conductors (708-1 and 708-2). Thefirst connector 714-1 may be of a type so as to connect with the firstport 614-1 of the diode-included connector 600 of FIG. 6. For example,if the first port 614-1 is a female coaxial-type connector, then thefirst connector 714-1 may be matching male coaxial-type connector. Whenthe first connector 714-1 and first port 614-1 are connected, the firstelectrical conductor 708-1 is connected to the first electricalconnection 608-1, and the second electrical conductor 708-2 is connectedto the second electrical connection 608-2.

In addition, a second connector 714-2 may be configured at an end of thethird and fourth conductors (708-3 and 708-4). The second connector714-2 may be of a type so as to connect with the second port 614-2 ofthe diode-included connector 600 of FIG. 6. For example, if the secondport 614-2 is a female coaxial-type connector, then the second connector714-2 may be matching male coaxial-type connector. When the secondconnector 714-2 and the second port 614-2 are connected, the thirdelectrical conductor 708-3 is connected to the third electricalconnection 608-3, and the fourth electrical conductor 708-4 is connectedto the fourth electrical connection 608-4.

FIG. 8 is schematic diagram of a photovoltaic assembly 800 in accordancewith the second embodiment of the invention. As shown, a plurality ofphotovoltaic laminates 700, each generally configured within a solarmodule, are connected in series using the diode-included connectors 600.As indicated, each diode-included connector 600 has a first port 614-1which is connected to the first connector 714-1 of a photovoltaiclaminate 700 (to the right of the connector in the figure) and a secondport 614-2 which is connected to the second connector 714-2 of anotherphotovoltaic laminate 700 (to the left of the connector in the figure).

The photovoltaic laminate 700 of FIG. 7 may operate in one of fourmodes: normal operation, full bypass, first partial bypass and secondpartial bypass. Normal operation mode is similar to that described abovein relation to FIG. 4A, and full bypass mode is similar to thatdescribed above in relation to FIG. 4B. In normal operation mode,electrical current I_(normal) flows in from the first electricalconductor 708-1 at the negative polarity end, through the series ofsolar cells in the string, and out of the fourth electrical conductor708-4 at the positive polarity end. In full bypass mode, electricalcurrent does not flow through the string of solar cells. Rather, theelectrical current I_(bypass) flows in from the second electricalconductor 708-2 at the negative polarity end, bypasses the string ofsolar cells, and flows out of the third electrical conductor 708-3 atthe positive polarity end.

FIG. 9A is a schematic diagram showing the photovoltaic laminate 700 ofFIG. 7 in a first partial bypass mode. In this first partial bypassmode, the leftmost two columns of solar cells 202 are bypassed, but therightmost four columns are not. For example, a partial shading of thelaminate which covers a substantial portion of the leftmost two columns(while leaving the rightmost four columns mostly unshaded) may cause thelaminate to enter into this mode.

Instead of flowing through the leftmost two columns of the string ofsolar cells, the electrical current I_(A) flows in from the secondelectrical conductor 708-2 at the negative polarity end, bypasses thefirst two columns, and flows to the interior point 720 in the string.From the interior point 720, the electrical current I_(A) flows throughthe rightmost four columns of the string of solar cells and out of thefourth electrical conductor 708-4 at the positive polarity end.

FIG. 9B is a schematic diagram showing the photovoltaic laminate of FIG.7 in a second partial bypass operation mode. In this second partialbypass mode, the leftmost two columns of solar cells 202 are notbypassed, but the rightmost four columns are bypassed. For example, apartial shading of the laminate which covers a substantial portion ofthe rightmost four columns (while leaving the leftmost two columnsmostly unshaded) may cause the laminate to enter into this mode.

Electrical current I_(B) flows in from the first electrical conductor708-1 at the negative polarity end and through the first two columns ofsolar cells in the string to reach the interior point 720. Thereafter,instead of flowing through the rightmost four columns of the string ofsolar cells, the electrical current I_(B) flows out through the thirdelectrical conductor 708-3 so as to bypasses the rightmost four columnsof solar cells.

FIG. 10A is a schematic diagram showing the diode-included connector 600of FIG. 6 in the first partial bypass mode. The diode-included connector600 may be in the first partial bypass mode because, for example, theleftmost two columns of the photovoltaic laminate 700 connected to thefirst connector 614-1 are substantially shaded, while the rightmost fourcolumns of the photovoltaic laminate 700 connected to the secondconnector 614-2 are mostly unshaded. As such, the first diode device602-1 may become forward biased, while the second diode device 602-2remains reverse biased. Hence, the electrical current I_(A) flows infrom the fourth electrical connection 608-4, through the first diodedevice 602-1, and out of the second electrical connection 608-2.

FIG. 10B is a schematic diagram showing the diode-included connector 600of FIG. 6 in a second partial bypass mode. The diode-included connector600 may be in the second partial bypass mode because, for example, theleftmost two columns of the photovoltaic laminate 700 connected to thefirst connector 614-1 are mostly unshaded, while the rightmost fourcolumns of the photovoltaic laminate 700 connected to the secondconnector 614-2 are substantially shaded. As such, the second diodedevice 602-2 may become forward biased, while the first diode device602-1 remains reverse biased. Hence, the electrical current I_(B) flowsin from the third electrical connection 608-3, through the second diodedevice 602-2, and out of the first electrical connection 608-1.

FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram of a diode-included connector 1100 inaccordance with a third embodiment of the invention. In comparison tothe diode-included connector 100 of FIG. 1, the diode-included connector1100 of FIG. 11 has four ports, labeled 1114-1, 1114-2, 1114-3, and1114-4. The first port 1114-1 is coupled by a first electricalconnection 108-1 to the anode of the diode device 102. The second port1114-2 is coupled by a second electrical connection 108-2 to the anodeof the diode device 102. The third port 1114-3 is coupled by a thirdelectrical connection 108-3 to the cathode of the diode device 102.Finally, the fourth port 1114-4 is coupled by a fourth electricalconnection 108-4 to the anode of the diode device 102. The first, secondand fourth electrical connections are effectively connected to eachother as they are each connected to the anode. In accordance with theimplementation shown in FIG. 11, the first and third ports (1114-1 and1114-3) are located on a first side of the diode-included connector1100, and the second and fourth ports (1114-2 and 1114-4) are located ona second (opposite) side of the diode-included connector 1100.

FIG. 12 is schematic diagram of a photovoltaic laminate 1200 inaccordance with the third embodiment of the invention. The photovoltaiclaminate 1200 of FIG. 12 comprises a first connector 1214-1 which iselectrically connected via a first electrical conductor 208-1 to thefirst end of the string of solar cells (the negative polarity end) and asecond electrical connector 1214-2 which is electrically connected via asecond electrical conductor 208-2 to the second end of the string (thepositive polarity end). The first electrical conductor 208-1 extends outof the first discrete penetration 212−, and the second electricalconductor 208-2 extends out of the second discrete penetration 212+. Incomparison to the photovoltaic laminate 200 of FIG. 2, the photovoltaiclaminate 1200 of FIG. 12 does not need the internal bus bar 220 and thethird electrical conductor 208-3.

FIG. 13 is schematic diagram of a photovoltaic assembly 1300 inaccordance with the third embodiment of the invention. As shown, eachdiode-included connector 1100 is used to interconnect two photovoltaiclaminates 1200. Each diode-included connector 1100 has its first port1114-1 electrically connected to the first electrical connector 1214-1of the photovoltaic laminate 1200 on its first side and has its secondport 1114-2 electrically connected to the second electrical connector1214-2 of the photovoltaic laminate 1200 on its second side. An externalcable is used to electrically connect the third port 1114-3 on the firstside of a diode-included connector 1100 to the fourth port 1114-4 on thesecond side of a next diode-included connector 1100.

Once interconnected as described above, the photovoltaic assembly 1300of FIG. 13 operates in a similar manner to the operation of thephotovoltaic assembly 300 of FIG. 3. However, instead of the bypasscurrent going through the internal bus bar 220, it goes through theexternal cable 1302.

FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram of a diode-included connector inaccordance with a fourth embodiment of the invention. In comparison tothe diode-included connector 600 of FIG. 6, the diode-included connector1400 of FIG. 14 has four ports, labeled 1414-1, 1414-2, 1414-3, and1414-4. The first port 1414-1 is coupled by a first electricalconnection 608-1 to the anode of the first diode device 602-1 and thecathode of the second diode device 602-2. The second port 1414-2 iscoupled by a second electrical connection 608-2 to the cathode of thefirst diode device 602-1. The third port 1414-3 is coupled by a thirdelectrical connection 608-3 to the anode of the second diode device 602.Finally, the fourth port 1114-4 is coupled by a fourth electricalconnection 608-4 to the anode of the first diode device 602-1 and thecathode of the second diode device 602-2. The first and fourthelectrical connections are effectively connected to each other. Inaccordance with the implementation shown in FIG. 14, the first andsecond ports (1414-1 and 1414-2) are located on a first side of thediode-included connector 1400, and the third and fourth ports (1414-3and 1414-4) are located on a second (opposite) side of thediode-included connector 1400.

FIG. 15 is schematic diagram of a photovoltaic laminate 1500 inaccordance with the fourth embodiment of the invention. The photovoltaiclaminate 1500 of FIG. 15 comprises a first connector 1514-1 which iselectrically connected via a first electrical conductor 1508-1 to thefirst end of the string of solar cells (the negative polarity end) and afourth electrical connector 1514-4 which is electrically connected via afourth electrical conductor 1508-4 to the second end of the string (thepositive polarity end). The first electrical conductor 1508-1 extendsout of a first discrete penetration 1512− (which may be near thenegative polarity end of the string), and the fourth electricalconductor 1508-4 extends out of a second discrete penetration 1512+(which may be near the positive polarity end of the string). Inaddition, a second connector 1514-2 is electrically connected via asecond electrical conductor 1508-2 to an interior point 720 of thestring, and a third connector 1514-3 is electrically connected via athird electrical conductor 1508-3 to the same interior point 720 of thestring. The second and third electrical conductors (1508-2 and 1508-3)may extend out of a third discrete penetration 1502 (which may be nearthe interior point of the string). The electrical conductors (1508-1,1508-2, 1508-3, and 1508-4) may comprise insulated wires or cables.

FIG. 16 is schematic diagram of a photovoltaic assembly 1600 inaccordance with the fourth embodiment of the invention. As shown, eachdiode-included connector 1400 is used to interconnect two photovoltaiclaminates 1500. Each diode-included connector 1400 has its first andsecond ports (1414-1 and 1414-2) electrically connected to the first andsecond electrical connectors (1514-1 and 1514-2), respectively, of thephotovoltaic laminate 1500 on its first side. Each diode-includedconnector 1400 has its third and fourth ports (1414-3 and 1414-4)electrically connected to the third and fourth electrical connectors(1514-3 and 1514-4), respectively, of the photovoltaic laminate 1500 onits second side.

Once interconnected as described above, the photovoltaic assembly 1600of FIG. 16 operates in a similar manner to the operation of thephotovoltaic assembly 800 of FIG. 8. However, instead of the bypasscurrent going through the wires or cables (708-2 and 708-3) embedded inthe laminate, it goes through the external wires or cables (1508-2 and1508-3).

In the present disclosure, numerous specific details are provided, suchas examples of apparatus, components, and methods, to provide a thoroughunderstanding of embodiments of the invention. Persons of ordinary skillin the art will recognize, however, that the invention can be practicedwithout one or more of the specific details. In other instances,well-known details are not shown or described to avoid obscuring aspectsof the invention.

While specific embodiments of the present invention have been provided,it is to be understood that these embodiments are for illustrationpurposes and not limiting. Many additional embodiments will be apparentto persons of ordinary skill in the art reading this disclosure.

What is claimed is:
 1. A photovoltaic laminate comprising: a string ofphotovoltaic cells, the string of photovoltaic cells having a first endand a second end; a first connector; a first electrical conductor thatis electrically connected to the first end of the string of photovoltaiccells and extends out of the first connector; a second connector; asecond electrical conductor that is electrically connected to the secondend of the string of photovoltaic cells and extends out of the secondconnector; and a third electrical conductor that is electricallyconnected to the second end of the string of photovoltaic cells andextends out of the first connector.
 2. The photovoltaic laminate ofclaim 1, further comprising: a bus bar that is embedded in thephotovoltaic laminate and connects the second end of the string ofphotovoltaic cells to the third electrical conductor.
 3. Thephotovoltaic laminate of claim 1, further comprising: a first discretepenetration, wherein the first electrical conductor is electricallyconnected to first end of the string of photovoltaic cells by way of thefirst discrete penetration.
 4. The photovoltaic laminate of claim 3,further comprising: a second discrete penetration, wherein the secondelectrical conductor is electrically connected to the second end of thestring of photovoltaic cells by way of the second discrete penetration.5. The photovoltaic laminate of claim 4, further comprising: a sealantinserted into the first and second discrete penetrations to seal thefirst and second discrete penetrations from external moisture.
 6. Thephotovoltaic laminate of claim 5, wherein the first discrete penetrationis located near the first end of the string of photovoltaic cells andexits the photovoltaic laminate through a back or edge of thephotovoltaic laminate, and wherein the second discrete penetration islocated near the second end of the string of photovoltaic cells andexits the photovoltaic laminate through a back or edge of thephotovoltaic laminate.
 7. The photovoltaic laminate of claim 1, whereinthe third electrical conductor is electrically connected to the secondend of the string of photovoltaic cells by way of a fourth electricalconductor that is external to the photovoltaic laminate.
 8. Thephotovoltaic laminate of claim 1, wherein the first connector isremovably connected to an end of a diode that is external to thephotovoltaic laminate.
 9. The photovoltaic laminate of claim 8, whereinthe first connector is removably connected to a port that iselectrically connected to the end of the diode, and wherein the diode ishoused in a housing that is external to the photovoltaic laminate andthat includes the first port.
 10. A photovoltaic laminate comprising: astring of photovoltaic cells, the string of photovoltaic cells having afirst end and a second end; a first discrete penetration of thephotovoltaic laminate; a first electrical conductor that is electricallyconnected to the first end of the string of photovoltaic cells andextends out of the first discrete penetration; a second electricalconductor which is electrically connected to an interior point of thestring of photovoltaic cells and extends out of the first discretepenetration; a second discrete penetration of the photovoltaic laminate;a third electrical conductor that is electrically connected to theinterior point of the string of photovoltaic cells and extends out ofthe second discrete penetration; and a fourth electrical conductor thatis electrically connected to the second end of the string ofphotovoltaic cells and extends out of the second discrete penetration.11. The photovoltaic laminate of claim 10, further comprising: a sealantinserted into the first and second discrete penetrations to preventexternal moisture from entering the photovoltaic laminate through thediscrete penetrations; and a strain relief mechanism incorporated intothe discrete penetration such that forces applied to the externalconductors are not transferred to a connection point.
 12. Thephotovoltaic laminate of claim 10, wherein the first discretepenetration is located near the first end of the string of photovoltaiccells, and wherein the second discrete penetration is located near thesecond end of the string of photovoltaic cells.
 13. The photovoltaiclaminate of claim 10, further comprising: a first connector, a secondconnector, a third connector, and a fourth connector, wherein the firstelectrical conductor extends out of the first connector, the secondelectrical conductor extends out of the second connector, the thirdelectrical conductor extends out of the third connector, and the fourthelectrical conductor extends out of the fourth connector.
 14. Aphotovoltaic laminate comprising: a string of photovoltaic cells, thestring of photovoltaic cells having a first end and a second end; afirst connector; a first electrical conductor that is electricallyconnected to the first end of the string of photovoltaic cells andextends out of the first connector; a second electrical conductor whichis electrically connected to an interior point of the string ofphotovoltaic cells and extends out of the first connector; a secondconnector; a third electrical conductor that is electrically connectedto the interior point of the string of photovoltaic cells and extendsout of the second connector; and a fourth electrical conductor that iselectrically connected to the second end of the string of photovoltaiccells and extends out of the second connector.
 15. The photovoltaiclaminate of claim 14, further comprising: a first discrete penetration,wherein the first electrical conductor is electrically connected to thefirst end of the string of photovoltaic cells by way of the firstdiscrete penetration.
 16. The photovoltaic laminate of claim 15, furthercomprising: a second discrete penetration, wherein the fourth electricalconductor is electrically connected to the second end of the string ofphotovoltaic cells by way of the second discrete penetration.
 17. Thephotovoltaic laminate of claim 15, further comprising: a sealantinserted into the first and second discrete penetrations to preventexternal moisture from entering the photovoltaic laminate through thediscrete penetrations; and a strain relief mechanism incorporated intothe discrete penetration such that forces applied to the externalconductors are not transferred to a connection point.
 18. Thephotovoltaic laminate of claim 16, wherein the first discretepenetration is located near the first end of the string of photovoltaiccells, and wherein the second discrete penetration is located near thesecond end of the string of photovoltaic cells.
 19. The photovoltaiclaminate of claim 10, wherein the first connector is removably connectedto an end of a first diode.
 20. The photovoltaic laminate of claim 19,wherein the second connector is removably connected to an end of asecond diode.